Wrexham,North Wales - Bus Station dispersal order hailed a success after 11 people are moved on

Published date: 17 May 2016 | 

Published by: Staff reporter
Read more articles by Staff reporterEmail reporter

MEASURES to curb anti-social behaviour at a town centre bus station are proving a success, say police.

Sgt Steve Owens said on Monday that 11 people had been moved on from Wrexham bus station on King Street since a dispersal notice was first issued six days before.

He added the “demand” in the areas had “reduced significantly” with the increased police presence there.

He said: “Because it is a dispersal order, you might expect to see an increase in activity in other areas but that hasn’t happened, so that’s a bonus in itself.”

Wrexham Council was “very supportive” , Sgt Owens added.

The disperal order is reviewed every 48 hours, and town centre police inspector Simon Kneale was due to review the order at 5pm on Monday.

The dispersals have coincided with driver Andy Cronin raised concerns Monday's Leader over drug-taking at the station.

He issued a stark message that if the situation does not change, then destinations at the end of bus routes might.

Mr Cronin said: “The anti-social behaviour at Wrexham bus station is going to have an impact on the local economy, sooner rather than later, if not already.

“On average there are 25 drunk or stoned louts hanging around and something has to be done.

“I’m six foot three and even I’m intimidated.”

He added: “Last night for example, I flagged two police officers down as there was a guy sprawled across stand five at the station and they went over to make sure he was okay.

“But they were struggling to deal with the situation because there were so many others getting in their way.”

Concerns have also been raised at Caia Park Community Council.

Cllr Hugh Jones, Wrexham Council’s lead member for communities, said: “The council takes the issue of anti-social behaviour very seriously, we understand the concerns expressed by the driver.

“I’ll be bringing a range of measures to the June executive board to give weight to a ‘zero tolerance’ policy on anti-social behaviour across the town centre.

“We are working with partners to ensure that Wrexham is safe and feels safe for our residents and visitors.”

see-http://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/162110/wrexham-bus-station-dispersal-order-hailed-a-success-after-11-people-are-moved-on.aspx